Man well-known to police arrested after foot chase

A man who RCMP in Kelowna say they’ve had more than 100 ‘”negative interactions” with, is facing a new criminal charge.

On October Wednesday (Oct. 19) at 10:45 p.m., RCMP received information that a man was overheard talking about breaking into a parked vehicle in the 1800 block of Underhill Street.

“Officers arrived in the area and observed a male already in the passenger seat of a vehicle rummaging around. When the male suspect noticed officers approaching he fled on foot onto Enterprise Way causing a short foot chase but was able to get away on his bike,” said Constable Mike Della-Paolera, media relations officer.

Della-Paolera said a short time later, officers noticed a person on the same bike who matched the description of the suspect and arrested the 33-year-old Kelowna man.

He was brought to the Kelowna RCMP station where he was fingerprinted and photographed then released pending further investigation for the charge of mischief under $5000.

Della-Poalera said the man has 111 negative police interactions with 10 criminal charges in the Central Okanagan and will be in court facing this new charge on Dec. 16.

“Kelowna RCMP are continuing this investigation, gathering surveillance and statements from witnesses to ensure the best possible evidence is submitted to the courts who ultimately decide on moving forward with charges,” said Della-Paolera.

Any witnesses to the incident who have yet to speak with RCMP or have dash camera footage, are asked to contact the Kelowna RCMP at (250) 762-3300 and reference the file number 2022-66020.